Featured Post

Outdoor Adventures, Newly Opened Greens, and the Midwest’s Bounty Bloom all across this State

Listen: Our North Dakota spring travel conversation…   "Add  https://www.google.com/preferences/source?q=barclaystravelbuddies.blog...

Monday, September 28, 2026

6 Fun Things to Do in Western MA: Explore Hampshire County

 

 

 

6 Fun Things to Do in Western MA: Explore Hampshire County



 "Add https://www.google.com/preferences/source?q=barclaystravelbuddies.blogspot.com as Preferred Source" 

Listen to this episode ljt

Looking for things to do in Western MA? Hampshire County offers a mix of scenic hiking, vibrant arts communities, historic towns, local food, breweries, and college-town culture.

From panoramic views atop Mount Holyoke to the independent shops and restaurants of Northampton, this corner of Western Massachusetts is a great destination for travelers who want to explore beyond the state's better-known cities.

Here are six experiences to add to your Hampshire County itinerary.




1. Hike Mount Holyoke for Connecticut River Valley Views

One of the classic outdoor experiences in Hampshire County is hiking Mount Holyoke in Skinner State Park.

The summit provides expansive views across the Connecticut River Valley, making the hike especially appealing during the warmer months and fall foliage season. The area also features interesting rock formations and opportunities to explore the surrounding trails.

For a longer outdoor adventure, travelers can connect their Hampshire County visit with sections of the New England Trail, a long-distance trail that passes through Western Massachusetts.

Good for: Hiking, photography, fall foliage, scenic views

2. Explore Northampton's Downtown, Arts and Local Shops

Northampton is one of the area's best places to experience the cultural side of Western Massachusetts.

Spend an afternoon walking along Main Street, browsing independent shops and galleries, checking out public art, and stopping at local restaurants and cafés. The city's compact downtown makes it easy to explore on foot.

Art lovers can also visit the Smith College Museum of Art, which offers a substantial collection in a setting that adds another cultural dimension to a Northampton-area visit.

Good for: Art, shopping, dining, culture and a walkable downtown




3. Discover Amherst's College-Town Atmosphere

Amherst combines the energy of a college town with the character of a small New England community.

The town is home to Amherst College, UMass Amherst and Hampshire College, creating a lively cultural and dining scene. Visitors can explore downtown Amherst, browse independent businesses, enjoy local restaurants and use the town as a base for exploring nearby attractions.

Amherst is particularly appealing for travelers who enjoy bookstores, museums, cafés, historic architecture and the atmosphere created by a concentration of colleges and universities.

Good for: Food, culture, college-town atmosphere and exploring local businesses

4. Experience Easthampton's Creative Side

Easthampton has become known for its arts, creative businesses and revitalized mill-building spaces.

The city's industrial history provides an interesting backdrop for galleries, studios, restaurants, shops and community spaces. It's a good place to spend a few hours wandering around, discovering local art and enjoying the area's food and drink scene.

Easthampton also makes a convenient stop when exploring the communities along the Connecticut River.

Good for: Art, local businesses, food, photography and a relaxed afternoon

5. Find Local Food, Farms and Craft Beer

Food is an important part of the Hampshire County experience. Travelers can find farm markets, locally produced foods, independent cafés, vegetarian and vegan restaurants, breweries and other small businesses throughout the region.

Atkins Farms is one example of the area's agricultural and local-food culture, while local breweries provide another way to experience the region's craft beverage scene.

For plant-based dining, Northampton and surrounding communities have several vegetarian and vegan-friendly options.

Good for: Foodies, craft beer, local products and casual dining

6. Discover Unique Local Attractions and Outdoor Spaces

Some of Hampshire County's most memorable experiences are smaller attractions that don't fit neatly into a traditional sightseeing itinerary.

Mill 180 Park, for example, combines an indoor community space with hydroponic growing and other sustainability-focused features. Snow Farm offers a different type of experience, with craft workshops and opportunities for visitors interested in making and traditional crafts.

These kinds of attractions showcase what makes Western Massachusetts distinctive: former industrial spaces, local creativity, environmental interests and hands-on experiences.

Good for: Families, curious travelers, art lovers and visitors looking for something different

Where to Stay in Hampshire County

Northampton is a convenient base for exploring many of Hampshire County's attractions, with restaurants, shops and cultural attractions within walking distance of its downtown.

Historic Hotel Northampton is one option for travelers who want to stay close to the center of town. From Northampton, visitors can easily explore Amherst, Easthampton, Mount Holyoke and other communities in the surrounding area.

When to Visit Western MA

Hampshire County is a year-round destination, but the experience changes considerably by season.

Spring: A good time for hiking, gardens and exploring towns before the busiest summer period.

Summer: Ideal for outdoor activities, festivals, farmers markets and exploring the area's trails.

Fall: One of the most popular times to visit, thanks to New England foliage and comfortable hiking weather.

Winter: A quieter time to explore museums, restaurants, cafés, galleries and indoor attractions.

Planning a Hampshire County Getaway

You can experience several of these attractions during a weekend in Western Massachusetts. A simple itinerary might combine a hike at Mount Holyoke with an afternoon in Northampton, followed by dinner and an evening exploring the local arts and food scene.

For a longer trip, add Amherst and Easthampton to your itinerary and leave time to discover the smaller attractions, independent businesses and outdoor spaces along the way.

Hampshire County is less about checking off a long list of major tourist attractions and more about experiencing the combination of small-town New England, outdoor recreation, arts and culture, local food and independent businesses that gives Western Massachusetts its character.

 

  • What is Hampshire County, MA known for?

  • What are the best things to do in Western MA?

  • Is Northampton, MA worth visiting?

  • What are the best outdoor activities in Hampshire County?

  • How many days do you need in Western Massachusetts?

Sunday, September 27, 2026

Virginia City, Montana: A Historic Gold-Rush Day Trip from Yellowstone


Virginia City, Montana: A Historic Gold-Rush Day Trip from Yellowstone


Virginia City a living relic of the Montana Gold Rush, shown in an illustrated guide to its historic streets, railroad, and attractions.



 "Add https://www.google.com/preferences/source?q=barclaystravelbuddies.blogspot.com as Preferred Source" 

This article contains AI content.

Imagine leaving Yellowstone's geysers and mountain trails behind and, less than a day's drive away, stepping onto a wooden boardwalk where Montana's gold-rush past still seems to linger. Weathered storefronts line the street, old saloons recall the prospectors who once crowded the town, and Victorian buildings tell the story of a frontier settlement that briefly became the political center of the Montana Territory.

This is Virginia City, Montana.

Founded during the gold rush of the 1860s, Virginia City grew from a mining settlement into one of the most important communities in the young Montana Territory. Today, its remarkably preserved historic district gives travelers a chance to walk through that history rather than simply read about it in a museum.

And that's what makes Virginia City such an intriguing addition to a Yellowstone itinerary. Yellowstone showcases the wild Montana landscape; Virginia City shows you the people, ambition, fortunes, and frontier culture that developed around it.

Just a short drive from the West Yellowstone area, this former gold-rush town offers a very different kind of Montana experience. You can wander historic streets, explore preserved buildings, learn about the mining era, ride the historic railroad toward nearby Nevada City, discover vintage amusement machines, and enjoy seasonal Western entertainment.

Virginia City isn't simply a ghost town—and that's part of its charm. It is a living historic destination where preserved 19th-century buildings sit alongside operating businesses and attractions, creating an experience that feels both historic and distinctly modern.




A Town Born from the Gold Rush

Virginia City grew rapidly after gold was discovered in Alder Gulch in 1863. By 1864, the settlement had become an important commercial center for miners, merchants, and prospectors arriving in the region.

The town also played an important role in Montana's early political history. Virginia City became the territorial capital in 1865, although the capital was eventually moved to Helena.

As mining activity declined, Virginia City lost much of its economic importance. Unlike many former mining settlements that disappeared almost completely, however, Virginia City survived. Its collection of historic buildings and streets has been carefully preserved, giving modern visitors an unusually vivid look at a Montana gold-rush town.

Walking Through Historic Virginia City

The best way to experience Virginia City is simply to walk.

Historic storefronts line the streets, many retaining the character of the businesses that served miners and residents during the town's boom years. Victorian-era buildings, old saloons, shops, and other preserved structures create an atmosphere that feels very different from the larger gateway communities around Yellowstone.

Some buildings house museums and historical exhibits, while others have been adapted into shops, restaurants, and other visitor-oriented businesses.

This mixture is part of Virginia City's appeal. It isn't an abandoned ghost town frozen in time. It is a preserved historic community where the past and present exist side by side.

Discover Montana's Mining History

Mining is central to Virginia City's story, and visitors can explore several attractions connected to the area's gold-rush heritage.

Historical tours and exhibits help explain how prospectors lived and worked during Montana's early mining era. Depending on the season and current operating schedule, visitors may also find opportunities to explore nearby mining areas and take specialized tours.

For travelers interested in the Old West, the mining history provides context for everything else they see in town. The buildings, businesses, roads, and stories all make more sense once you understand that Virginia City grew out of one of Montana's most important gold discoveries.




Don't Miss Nevada City

One of the most useful things to know when planning a visit is that Nevada City is nearby and is a separate historic attraction from Virginia City.

The two destinations are often visited together, making it possible to combine them into a half-day or full-day outing.

Nevada City preserves additional historic buildings and exhibits from Montana's gold-rush era. The Virginia City–Nevada City area also offers transportation attractions, including the historic shortline railroad experience that connects the two communities during the operating season.

If you're already making the drive to Virginia City, allowing time for Nevada City can turn a quick stop into a much more complete look at the area's mining history.

More Than History: Old-Fashioned Entertainment

Virginia City isn't limited to museums and historic buildings.

Part of the fun is discovering the unusual attractions scattered throughout the town. Visitors can find vintage amusement machines, Western-themed entertainment, historical demonstrations, tours, and seasonal events.

The town's entertainment offerings give Virginia City a distinctly different character from a conventional history museum. You can spend the morning learning about Montana's territorial past and the afternoon exploring quirky attractions that feel right at home in an old mining town.

Seasonal events and chuck-wagon-style experiences can add even more atmosphere during the busy summer visitor season.

Historic Accommodations

Virginia City also offers visitors the opportunity to stay overnight rather than simply passing through.

Some historic Victorian homes and buildings have been converted into small inns and lodging properties. Staying in one of these properties can provide a more immersive experience, particularly for travelers who enjoy historic hotels and unusual accommodations.

For most Yellowstone visitors, however, Virginia City works well as a day trip. Those with more time can combine an overnight stay with a visit to nearby historic communities and attractions in southwest Montana.



Getting There from Yellowstone

Virginia City is particularly convenient for travelers exploring the West Yellowstone and southwest Montana area.

Because Yellowstone National Park is enormous, the actual driving time varies considerably depending on where you begin your journey. Rather than thinking of Virginia City as a fixed “90-minute drive from Yellowstone,” it is more useful to consider it a day-trip destination from the West Yellowstone area and the Madison Valley.

The drive itself becomes part of the experience, with Montana's wide-open landscapes providing a dramatic contrast to Yellowstone's geothermal features and mountain scenery.

Before setting out, check seasonal road conditions and attraction schedules, particularly outside the main summer travel season.

When to Visit

Virginia City is primarily a seasonal destination, with many attractions operating during the warmer months.

The period from late spring through early fall generally offers the greatest selection of things to see and do. Summer is especially appealing because more tours, transportation experiences, events, shops, and attractions are operating.

Outside the main season, some businesses and attractions may have limited hours or be closed altogether. Travelers visiting in the shoulder seasons should check individual attraction schedules before making the trip.

How Much Time Do You Need?

For a quick introduction, you can see some of Virginia City's highlights in a few hours. However, travelers who want to explore the historic buildings, visit museums, take a tour, experience the railroad, and see nearby Nevada City should plan for at least a half day.

A full day allows you to slow down and enjoy the destination rather than rushing from one attraction to another.

Is Virginia City Worth Adding to a Yellowstone Trip?

Virginia City offers something Yellowstone cannot: a direct connection to Montana's human history and the dramatic gold-rush era that helped shape the state.

Instead of towering mountains, geysers, and wildlife, the attractions here are historic buildings, old storefronts, mining stories, Western entertainment, and preserved communities.

That contrast is precisely what makes Virginia City interesting.

For travelers who want to experience more than Yellowstone's natural wonders, Virginia City provides an opportunity to explore the history of the people who came to Montana in search of gold—and the communities they built along the way.

Planning Your Visit

Best for: History enthusiasts, families, Old West fans, photographers, and travelers looking for something different from the typical Yellowstone itinerary.

Ideal visit: Half a day to a full day.

Main experiences: Historic buildings, gold-rush history, museums, tours, vintage entertainment, seasonal events, and nearby Nevada City.

Best season: Late spring through early fall, when the greatest number of attractions are operating.

Virginia City may have begun as a rough-and-tumble gold-rush settlement, but today it offers visitors a carefully preserved window into Montana's past. Combined with nearby Nevada City and the surrounding Madison Valley, it makes an easy and memorable addition to a southwest Montana and Yellowstone itinerary.




Saturday, September 26, 2026

Is Dubai Really a Shopping Paradise?


Is Dubai Really a Shopping Paradise?



This article contains AI content.

 "Add Barclay's Travel Buddies as Preferred Source" 

Listen to the discussion
 

There is no doubt that Dubai has earned a reputation as a shopping paradise. In the United Arab Emirates, shopping can feel like a national pastime. From sprawling luxury mega-malls to independent boutiques and traditional markets, the city offers seemingly endless opportunities for shoppers. Yet despite the allure of VAT refunds, major sales events, and an extraordinary choice of brands, one question remains: is shopping in Dubai actually a bargain?

The short answer is: not necessarily.



Tuesday, February 20, 2024

Outdoor Adventures, Newly Opened Greens, and the Midwest’s Bounty Bloom all across this State

Photo by ROMAN ODINTSOV: https://www.pexels.com/photo/tired-traveler-with-husky-on-mountainous-terrain-4555468/

Listen: Our North Dakota spring travel conversation…

 "Add https://www.google.com/preferences/source?q=barclaystravelbuddies.blogspot.com as Preferred Source" 

This article contains AI content.

North Dakota Spring Travel: Best Things to Do & See

Spring in North Dakota brings a welcome change of scenery as winter gives way to warmer days, greener landscapes, outdoor adventures, and new opportunities to explore. From the dramatic North Dakota Badlands to state parks, hiking trails, golf courses, local food, and wildlife experiences, spring is an excellent time to start discovering what the state has to offer.

Whether you're planning a weekend getaway, a road trip, or a longer North Dakota vacation, here are some ideas to help you make the most of spring in the Peace Garden State.

Why Visit North Dakota in Spring?

Spring is a season of transition in North Dakota. As temperatures begin to moderate, outdoor attractions start welcoming visitors for another season of exploration.

Travelers can enjoy scenic drives, hiking, wildlife watching, state parks, golf, local restaurants, and seasonal events. Spring can also provide a different perspective on North Dakota's landscapes before the peak summer travel season arrives.

For travelers who enjoy the outdoors, this is a good time to start checking trail conditions, park information, and seasonal opening dates when planning a trip.

Explore Theodore Roosevelt National Park

One of the most memorable places to experience spring in North Dakota is Theodore Roosevelt National Park in the western part of the state.

The park protects approximately 70,447 acres across three units: the South Unit, North Unit, and Elkhorn Ranch Unit. Its landscape includes portions of the North Dakota Badlands, mixed-grass prairie, forests, shrublands, and the Little Missouri River.

Spring is a wonderful opportunity to explore the park's scenery and hiking trails while watching the landscape change from its winter appearance to the colors of a new growing season.

Hiking in Theodore Roosevelt National Park

The park offers trails for visitors with different interests and experience levels. Before setting out, check current conditions with the National Park Service because spring weather can affect roads and trails.

Bring appropriate layers, water, sun protection, and sturdy footwear, and allow plenty of time to enjoy the scenery rather than rushing from one viewpoint to another.

Wildlife watching is another popular reason to explore the park. Keep a safe distance from wildlife and follow National Park Service guidance while visiting.

Discover the North Dakota Badlands

The Badlands are one of the defining landscapes of western North Dakota. Their unusual formations, rolling prairie, colorful rock layers, and winding river valleys create a dramatic setting for a spring road trip.

A visit to the Badlands can easily be combined with other attractions in western North Dakota, making the area a natural choice for travelers who want to build a scenic road-trip itinerary.

Take time to stop at overlooks, photograph the landscape, and explore designated trails where conditions allow.

Visit North Dakota's State Parks

North Dakota's state parks provide additional opportunities to enjoy the outdoors during spring.

Depending on your itinerary, state parks can be a good place for hiking, picnicking, camping, wildlife observation, photography, and other outdoor activities.

Because spring opening dates, facilities, and conditions can vary, check the current information for the specific park you plan to visit before leaving home.

If you're planning a North Dakota road trip, consider adding a state park to your itinerary rather than focusing only on major tourist attractions. You may discover quieter trails and landscapes along the way.

Enjoy Spring Hiking in North Dakota

If hiking is part of your travel plans, spring offers plenty of opportunities to explore North Dakota's changing landscapes.

The state has a variety of environments, from prairie and woodland to the distinctive Badlands of western North Dakota. Short walks can be combined with scenic drives, while more ambitious hikers can plan longer outings where conditions permit.

Before hiking in early spring, remember that temperatures and trail conditions can change quickly. Check the forecast and current trail information, dress in layers, and carry the supplies appropriate for the length and location of your hike.

Get Ready for Golf Season

Spring also signals the beginning of another outdoor season: golf.

As courses open and conditions improve, golfers can start looking for opportunities to play throughout North Dakota. If you're traveling specifically for golf, check individual course websites or contact courses directly for opening dates, course conditions, tee times, and seasonal schedules.

Golf can also be an easy activity to combine with a North Dakota weekend getaway, especially when paired with local restaurants, attractions, or outdoor activities.

Enjoy North Dakota's Local Food

A North Dakota spring trip doesn't have to be all about outdoor adventure.

Make time to explore local restaurants, cafés, markets, and other food experiences during your travels. Trying locally produced food can add another dimension to a road trip and gives visitors a chance to experience the communities they're visiting.

Consider building your itinerary around a combination of outdoor attractions and local dining rather than treating meals as an afterthought.

When Is the Best Time to Visit North Dakota in Spring?

The best time for a spring trip depends on what you want to do.

Early spring can be appealing for travelers who enjoy quieter travel and changing landscapes, although weather and outdoor conditions may be less predictable.

Mid-spring can offer more opportunities for outdoor activities as conditions improve, but travelers should still check local weather and trail information.

Late spring generally brings travelers closer to the summer outdoor season, making it a useful time to plan hiking, sightseeing, golf, and road-trip activities.

Rather than choosing a date based only on the calendar, check current conditions for the destinations and activities on your itinerary.

Tips for Planning a North Dakota Spring Trip

A little preparation can make a spring trip more enjoyable.

Check the weather

North Dakota spring weather can change, so check the forecast shortly before your trip and pack clothing that can be layered.

Check park conditions

Before visiting a national or state park, check its official website for current road, trail, facility, and operating information.

Plan for changing trail conditions

Spring trails may not have the same conditions as summer trails. Be prepared to adjust your plans if a trail or road isn't suitable.

Give yourself extra travel time

North Dakota's open landscapes can make distances between attractions seem deceptively short. Build enough time into your itinerary for stops, scenic viewpoints, meals, and unexpected discoveries.

Bring the right outdoor gear

Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots, water, sunscreen, weather-appropriate clothing, and a daypack can all be useful for spring adventures.

Check current park fees and policies

Park fees, payment methods, reservations, and seasonal requirements can change. Always verify current information with the official park website before your visit.

For example, the National Park Service announced that Theodore Roosevelt National Park began transitioning to cashless fee collection on May 1, 2026, with credit cards, debit cards, and mobile payments accepted at park sales outlets.

Frequently Asked Questions About Spring in North Dakota

Is North Dakota worth visiting in spring?

Yes. Spring provides opportunities to explore North Dakota's Badlands, national and state parks, hiking trails, wildlife areas, golf courses, local restaurants, and scenic landscapes. Conditions vary throughout the season, so travelers should check current information before visiting.

What are the best things to do in North Dakota in spring?

Popular spring activities include hiking, wildlife viewing, scenic drives, visiting Theodore Roosevelt National Park, exploring state parks, playing golf, photographing the Badlands, and trying local food.

Can you visit Theodore Roosevelt National Park in spring?

Yes. Theodore Roosevelt National Park is open year-round. The park encompasses approximately 70,447 acres across three units and offers opportunities to experience the North Dakota Badlands and surrounding landscapes.

What should I pack for a spring trip to North Dakota?

Pack layers and prepare for changing weather. Depending on your activities, useful items may include comfortable walking or hiking shoes, a waterproof layer, sunscreen, water, and a daypack.

What is there to see in the North Dakota Badlands?

The Badlands offer distinctive geological formations, prairie landscapes, river valleys, wildlife-viewing opportunities, scenic viewpoints, and hiking opportunities. Theodore Roosevelt National Park is one of the major places to experience this landscape.

Start Planning Your North Dakota Spring Adventure

Spring is an exciting time to experience North Dakota's outdoors and communities. From the dramatic scenery of the Badlands and Theodore Roosevelt National Park to state parks, hiking trails, golf, wildlife, and local food, there are plenty of ways to build a memorable spring itinerary.

Whether you're visiting for a weekend or planning a longer road trip, leave some room in your schedule to slow down, explore the scenery, and discover something unexpected along the way.

Before traveling, check official destination and park websites for the latest information on weather, road and trail conditions, fees, hours, reservations, and seasonal closures.



Read more about outdoor adventures and newly opened greens


Exploring 49 Years of Preserved Wilderness and Waterfall Bliss in Sipsey Fork, Alabama

Photo by Manuela Adler: https://www.pexels.com/photo/body-of-water-across-forest-949194/

 

Click to hear Audio


 "Add https://www.google.com/preferences/source?q=barclaystravelbuddies.blogspot.com as Preferred Source" 

Discover the enchanting wonders of Sipsey Fork, Alabama, where 49 years of dedicated preservation efforts have safeguarded its pristine wilderness and breathtaking waterfalls. In this blog post, we embark on a journey to explore the natural beauty and tranquility that make Sipsey Fork a haven for nature enthusiasts.

Sipsey Fork, located in Alabama, has been a protected haven for nearly five decades, allowing its natural splendor to flourish undisturbed. The commitment to preserving this wilderness has resulted in a sanctuary where visitors can connect with nature in its purest form.

**A Symphony of Nature:**

As you venture into the protected wilderness of Sipsey Fork, you'll be greeted by a symphony of sounds – the rustle of leaves, the gentle babble of the river, and the melodic chirping of birds. The lush greenery and diverse flora create a vibrant tapestry, providing a haven for countless species of plants and wildlife.


**Waterfall Bliss:**

One of the highlights of Sipsey Fork is the mesmerizing waterfalls that cascade through the landscape. These natural wonders offer a sense of tranquility and awe, inviting visitors to witness the beauty of water dancing over ancient rock formations. Whether you're an avid photographer, a hiking enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, the waterfalls in Sipsey Fork provide a picture-perfect backdrop.


**Preservation Success Story:**

The 49-year history of protected wilderness in Sipsey Fork is a testament to the importance of conservation efforts. The foresight and dedication of those who championed the cause have allowed generations to experience the magic of this untouched natural paradise. The success of preserving Sipsey Fork serves as an inspiration for future conservation initiatives, emphasizing the need to safeguard our planet's natural treasures.


**Visitor Tips and Recommendations:**

For those eager to embark on their own adventure in Sipsey Fork, consider these tips:

- Respect the environment: Follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the ecosystem.

- Hiking trails: Explore the well-maintained hiking trails that lead to the most scenic spots, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

- Wildlife observation: Keep a respectful distance from wildlife and refrain from disturbing their habitats.

 Sipsey Fork, Alabama, stands as a testament to the enduring beauty of nature when given the chance to thrive. As we celebrate 49 years of protected wilderness and waterfall bliss, let us be inspired to continue our efforts in preserving and appreciating the remarkable landscapes that grace our planet. Embark on your own journey to Sipsey Fork and immerse yourself in the timeless allure of this pristine haven.

source : https://www.trvstewardshipcouncil.org/





Saturday, May 28, 2022

Cruise Line Wins ‘Best Beverage Menu’ Award

 


 "Add barclays travel buddies as Preferred Source" 

Half Moon Bar is a novel idea for Holland America Line that debuted exclusively on its most current ship, Rotterdam, which debuted in November 2021. The venue is an interactive experience that looks at Holland America Line's history and cruises through the prism of a cocktail. Each drink is accompanied by an intriguing story about its origins, which is beautifully described in the bar menu for guests to peruse.


Half Moon Bar's inventive cocktails attempt to transport customers back in time on a voyage through Holland America Line's history. On the menu are the following drinks:

"The Original" celebrates the line's first ship, Rotterdam I, made with a Dutch gin and a hint of single malt Scotch, ingredients inspired by the building of the ship and Holland America Line's Dutch beginnings.

"De Halve Moon," prepared with Old Duff genever, lemon rosewater shrub, and DDG Bitters, is a homage to the Dutch attitude of discovery and the botanical wonderland Henry Hudson discovered in modern-day New York.

The prohibition cocktail "Three Mile Run" relates the story of Holland America Line's Prohibition-era excursions to nowhere for New Yorkers, where the ship's cocktail bars could be lawfully open. For a Bee's Knees, it's made with lemon, honey, and gin; for a Gold Rush, it's whiskey; and for a Honey Bee, it's rum.

"May She Be Blessed" is a champagne and essence cocktail dedicated to the godmothers who bless the Holland America Line ships.

"Rotterdam VII" is a smoked gin and maraschino cocktail that pays homage to the ship's namesake and its distinctive blend of history and innovation.

The VIBE Vista Awards honor the best in the beverage business for developing, educating, executing, managing, and maintaining successful beverage programs. Entries were judged on positive beverage sales strategies, efficient operational innovations, and training and service programs that produced high quality standards by a panel of Johnson & Wales University beverage faculty, staff, and alumni. The VIBE Conference is the main yearly gathering for adult beverage executives and suppliers from chain and hotel properties.

source holland america line






Saturday, April 30, 2022

Celebrity Brand Joins Celebrity Cruise This September

 


 "Add barclays travel buddies as Preferred Source" 


Support Us at this link

Celebrity Cruises Announces ‘
goop at Sea,’ Sailing this September on the Brand-New Ship, Celebrity BeyondSM, as well as an Extension of the goop Partnership, with Founder Gwyneth Paltrow serving as Celebrity Cruises’ Well-Being Advisor. Celebrity Cruises and lifestyle brand goop will go on an exclusive wellness retreat at sea this fall on board the much-anticipated new luxury ship Celebrity Beyond.


‘goop at Sea’ will take place on the Celebrity Beyond 9-night Italian Riviera & France sailing departing from Barcelona on September 24, 2022, and will feature a series of transformative experiences and sessions led by goop’s wellness practitioners, as well as an appearance by Gwyneth Paltrow, the company’s founder and CEO.

A range of goop’s distinctive products, including the GOOPGLOW and GOOPGENES lines, will now be accessible on board Celebrity Beyond, expanding the firms’ cooperation that began in early 2020. Gwyneth Paltrow will continue to serve as Celebrity’s Well-Being Advisor, a role she has held since April 2021.

Paltrow and the goop team will also continue to curate innovative wellness offerings for Celebrity’s ships, including on-demand wellness classes on stateroom TVs, a custom detox smoothie, and fitness tools for guests of AquaClass® staterooms, a fully-immersive next level wellness experience that is taken even further on Beyond with the new Aqua Sky Suites, which feature floor-to-ceiling ocean views, private verandas, luxurious bedding, and other wellness amenities.

Read more about Celebrity brand cruise